Whether I'm playing a DVD or a VHS tape, the image on the screen is much darker than it should be for about 80% of the time...then the screen fades back to the normal lighter image it should be, lasts for a few seconds, and fades darker again. (A darker scene in a movie is pretty much impossible to see.) Some colors are also distorted sometimes...especially shades of red and pink. For example, a person's lips (even without makeup) are bright red.
It seems logical that this is a problem with my DVD/VCR combo, but I wouldn't think it would have effected both at the same time if the machine was dirty inside or something. I moved across town, and it was working fine with my old TV and a few weeks after I moved (so I don't think the machine is damaged).
Any ideas on whether this is something with a quick fix or would I be better off buying a new machine?
I would be inclined to check your video connections to your TV set. Also shack around the cables as maybe ones bad and would show up there. Also try to unplug the unit and reset it to factory defaults. Lets us know how you made out. Good Luck
Thanks Larry. I took your reply home and tried jiggling every cable and connection I could find but there was no change. I tried unplugging everything and that didn't work either. Any other ideas out there? Should I just assume my machine is busted and buy a new DVD/VCR combo? To say the least, I'm no do-it-yourself tech whiz...but if there's a quick fix I'd must rather try that than buy a new machine.
I you tryed all the connections, then I would say that there is a problem in the combo units video section of the unit. Probably not worth taking into a shop for an estimate these days.
Well thanks for trying. I think I'll just have to buy a new combo, which is a shame. On the other hand, in the midst of all my frustrations I discovered this site, so at least I'll have somewhere to direct my questions to on issues like this one. Thanks again for your help!
Yes do save this addy, and don't forget to share with your buds.
Back again. I did end up buying a new DVD/VHS recorder (would have done so anyway, but am still having the exact same problem. So should I assume the problem is with my TV? It only occurs when I'm watching a movie, not when I'm watching regular television. Oddly enough, it doesn't occur if I'm watching a show that I recorded from television either.
Are you using the RF input or the video input of the TV set?